The Lodges at Banning Mills

More than just lodging, Banning Mills offers adventure, nature and history.

Mike and Donna Holder, parents of four children, didn't know what they would do with their plot of land once they bought it in 1997. It was overgrown, and they had little clue what a treasure it contained. Nor what a treasure they would ultimately make of it. The property embraces the Snake River Gorge, a tributary of the Chattahoochee River. Its 2,000 acres today include what the Holders claim is one of the world's highest and fastest zip lines, a team-building course, conservation center, the ruins of an old paper mill dating to just after the Civil War and tree-shrouded lodging. The accommodations include twelve rooms fitted with two-person whirlpool tubs, nine cabins, twenty "lodge" rooms that are more like standard hotel rooms and ten cottages. Camping and RV sites also are available. The style is rustic country, but it's what you would expect in this environment. From your balcony in a whirlpool room, you can hear the waters of Snake Creek in the distance. Great for romance, family adventure and corporate meetings, historic Banning Mills offers a unique experience. Along with the team-building course, hiking trails, horseback riding, kayaking and a raptor show are all available (additional fees). Reservations are required. An on-site chef prepares meals for guests at their request, and a complimentary full breakfast buffet is presented in the morning.